Predicting anything in crazy 2016 is a risky business. One thing is clear though.
Mexico is not about to abandon its citizens in the United States to the mercy of President Donald Trump’s ruthless immigration policies.
In a video message posted on government websites and social media Wednesday, Foreign Secretary Claudia Ruiz Massieu said she has instructed all Mexican consulates in U.S. cities to provide whatever assistance necessary to protect citizens from abuse and fraud and offer advice on immigration issues and whether nationals may be targets for deportation.
“Stay calm, do not fall to provocations and do not let yourself be deceived,” the foreign minister said.
A toll-free number will be made available to connect legal and undocumented Mexican citizens with their nearest consulates, which will extend their opening hours until further notice.
Mexican consulates in the United States are being bombarded with inquiries from citizens seeking information on whether Trump’s promise to deport millions of migrants will affect them and their families.
Ruiz Massieu said consulate staff will double their efforts to help Mexican citizens obtain birth records required to complete legal processes. They will also try to speed up the registration of children born in the United States to parents who are Mexican nationals.
The federal government intends to reach out to Mexican communities in the United States and collaborate with NGOs to help protect the rights of their citizens.